Category Archives: Love

November 13th 2018 – How Jesus See’s You

“Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town.  There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd.  (Luke 19:1-2)

According to the world’s standards for evaluating worth, Zacchaeus was a failure. He was extremely short; he was disliked by everyone because he was a tax collector; and he even hated himself.

He was not proud of what he had achieved in life because he knew he had cheated people to get where he was. He was powerful and had a lot of money, but he absolutely had no friends and was incredibly lonely.

But one day Zacchaeus’ life was completely changed because Jesus walked by and wanted to spend time with him, he realized how much he mattered to God.

When Zacchaeus learned that Jesus was coming to town, he wanted to see him, but he was too short to get a glimpse above the crowd.

“So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way. When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.”” (Luke 19:3-5)

That very moment when Jesus looked up and noticed Zacchaeus. Can you imagine how Zacchaeus’ felt? Did his heart start pounding, did he experiance butterflies deep in his stomach? Jesus was looking right at him, a small, despised, insignificant man.

Why did Jesus stop at that tree and look at him? Because He knew that’s exactly where Zacchaeus was.

God knows exactly where you are too. He knew where you were a week ago and he knows where you now and even where you will be tomorrow. You may feel like you’re stuck in a tree right now in your life. God knows where you are. You may feel like you’re out on a limb, Jesus knows. You may feel all alone, but Jesus stops and notices. You are not forgotten, you are not alone.

No tear has ever been hidden from Him. No hurtful word said to you has ever passed that he missed. No abuse has ever occurred that he didn’t see and grieve with you. He sees it all.

What is the price of five sparrows, two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” (Luke 12:6-7)

The greatest gift of love anyone can ever receive is attention. When you give people your time, you give them your life. When you pay attention to someone and look them in the eye, you are saying, “You matter to me. You are valuable.”

There is never a moment, never a second in your life that God is not paying attention to you. He notices you 24 hours a day because he loves you; you are valuable to him.

Don’t forget to call or visit your loved ones the fast approaching holiday’s and let them know that they matter to you. Make amends to the ones you may need to, and brighten the day of someone that wouldn’t expect you to call. Let them know that they matter and you still care.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for the always noticing me no matter how insignificant I may feel in the world, how lonely I may be because family doesnt call or how screwed up I may get. Today I come to You with nothing but empty hands and a heart that desires more of You. Please Lord, take my life and do with it as you please. I trust You and desire to glorify Your name in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Please Watch this short video animation. (Forward this devotion to someone that needs to hear what is says)

Invitation:

If you are reading these devotions and are not a follower of Jesus Christ, please be aware that these seeds of scripture are being sown in your heart right now… I am praying that they start to take root in your heart and you come to know personally the greatest truth you will ever hear.. Jesus Christ died on a cross for you. He loves you and He cares for you. When you call His name and ask for His help, He will set you free..  Click Here if you would like to learn more about Gods salvation, or ask Him into your heart.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

November 11th 2018 – Veterans Day

“You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. (2 Timothy 2:1-7)

In the United States, Veteran’s Day is celebrated on November 11th; many other countries have similar days devoted to the honoring of their soldiers. In this devotion for Veterans Day let’s look at 2 Timothy 2:1-7 to discover the proper attitude for a soldier.

As far back in history we go, when cities and countries were formed, each found it necessary to protect themselves by developing an army of soldiers. The Bible records information about Kings and soldiers in the book of Genesis. The Bible also tells us in 2 Timothy that every Christian is a soldier of Jesus Christ.

God uses the illustration of the soldier to help us how to understand our responsibilities as soldiers in the army of God.

We know that soldiers have suffered and died throughout history to protect their own country. Many times God also calls the Christian soldier to suffer, and sometimes die for his faith. This should not come as a surprise to us. If you take the time to read the book of Psalms, you know that many of the Psalms of David are filled with laments over David’s suffering, especially when the enemies of God were devoted to killing him even when he had done nothing wrong.

When God calls us to suffer, we must cry out to God for help, for He alone can help us. You’ll find that the more you are consistently reading God’s Word and praying to Him, this becomes almost second nature. You will find yourself talking to the Lord throughout the day. I think that is exactly what Paul is referring to when he tells us to pray without ceasing.

What would happen in the midst of battle if each soldier decided to fight the battle the way he thought best. Chaos would soon set in. You would hope to fight against an army such as that because you would be guaranteed to win! The scripture tells us that the soldier seeks to please the one who enlisted him.

As a soldier of Christ, finish the battle! Don’t give up midstream’ don’t go back to the sins of your youth. Rather just as the athlete is not crowned until he competes according to the rules and finishes the race.

I pray that you will be a faithful soldier of Jesus Christ so that you too, will receive the Crown of Life at the end of your battle!

This Veterans Day, We salute all of the United States Military Veterans! God Bless you.

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Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank you for all of the people that have risked thier lives and the ones that paid the ultimate price so that we can be live freely in this nation. I also thank You Lord for the ultimate sacrifice that not only many of our veterans made for me, but You made for me…. Please bring healing to our nation Lord God. Also be with our leaders and help reunite and heal our precious country.  I pray that a great awaking  happens in this country and the people and  leaders of people fall to their knees in prayer and proclaim You Lord. That will truly make “America Great Again!” In Your glorious name, Amen.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click Here to learn more.

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Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

November 8th 2018 – Let There Be Light

“For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:6)

In the beginning God spoke into the darkness and created the light. This light was the beginning of a new world. Like our world, we all begin in darkness because of our sinful nature. As the holidays are approaching we need to remember to have an attitude greatfulness and thanksgiving and truly be excited because the Light of God himself has come into our darkness. Two thousand years ago in a stable in Bethlehem, Jesus Christ came in the form of man. He, who had created light in the beginning of time, was now on our earth as a light to men.

What great news! The Lord of all creation has come to bring light and life to men. As we give our lives to Jesus, He speaks into our lives and light bursts forth in brilliant beams. This light transforms us from the inside and we are made new. As you celebrate with family and friends this upcoming season, look at all the lights around you and remember ‘The Light’ of the world. As you do that, remember that He has come to make us lights to this world as well. What an honor, to be given the Light of God to share with others who are in darkness. Surely, this is what the holiday season is all about.

“Shine as bright lights that illuminate the darkness.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for the light given to men through Your Son, Jesus. Father, forgive me of my sins and fill me with Your light so that I may share You with this dark world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Living in the dark? Looking for meaning and direction? I encourage you not to pass up the precious gift of His love and eternal life. Jesus died on the cross for you and me. He loves us and wants to help us. If you have not asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior please click here 4 Simple Steps to Jesus.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

November 5th 2018 – Words Have Power

“I am the rose of Sharon, And the lily of the valleys.” (Song of Solomon 2:1)

What causes someone to change their view of themselves? Could it be as simple as kind words of affection? It was in the case of Solomon and his bride to be. In chapter one of Song of Solomon, we find the Shulamite depressed about her appearance when she says, “Do not look at me, because I am dark, because the sun has tanned me.” She is concerned about her appearance because she worked in the vineyards, under the hot sun, and was unable to care for herself. Compare those original words to chapter two where she calls herself a rose of Sharon. What a change of perspective, and all because Solomon spoke loving words of affection and encouragement to her. This shouldn’t surprise us since God’s Word describes the power of words in the book of James.

(James 3:5) “In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.”

The power of our speech is unbelievable. Many times we forget that and hurt with our words rather than heal. God desires that we all walk with grace, humility and love for one another. We should look for opportunities to lift one another up with our words. Speak words of gratitude, of thanksgiving and of grace to one another. Husbands, speak affectionate words to your wife. Wives, speak words of encouragement to your husbands. In this circle of loving words and affection, you will find a healthy, growing relationship. We also need to practice how we speak to others as well as to ourselves. Our words are powerful so let’s use them wisely.

“Our words are powerful tools that can be used to build people up or tear people down.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for relationships. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I can speak loving words into those I relate to, whether my spouse, children or friends. Give me patience to love even when the love is not returned. I ask for wisdom to know when to speak and when to keep silent. Use my words to heal and to glorify Your Name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you have never asked Jesus into your life, or wan’t to recommit your life to Him, please click here

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

November 4th 2018 – Someone Hit and Run Off with My “Peace”

“And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison.” (Acts 12:6)

How often do you allow the troubles of life to steal your peace? Do you replay events over and over in your mind wishing you had done something differently, and sometimes even allow bad events to set the tone for the rest of your day?

I am reminded of a story about a man who while on his way to work stops to get a soda, when he is inside the gas station, someone bumps into his car and drives off. When he finally got to work, a colleague asked him how he was doing. Through clenched teeth he said, “Terrible! Someone bumped into my car and drove off.” He walked into his office, slammed the door, threw the chair back from his desk, and picked up a phone to speak harshly to an employee. At lunch, the waiter at the restaurant asked him how he was doing and he responded, “Terrible! Someone hit my care this morning!” Later that evening when he got home his wife asked him how his day went and he said, “It was terrible! I had someone hit and run me this morning!” That one event shaped his entire day and not only that, his bad attitude affected everyone he came across. In Acts chapter 12, we see James had been killed by Herod and Peter was imprisoned. Although Peter was probably about to be executed, he was sleeping! Now as far as ‘bad days’ go, I’d rank his pretty high on the list, yet Peter is comfortable and peaceful enough to sleep. Peter was at peace in the Lord as we should be. No matter what the circumstance.

Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

No matter what trial or tribulation you are facing, know that there will be a day when you will be free from it. It may not be until you are with the Lord in Heaven, but you will be free from it. Be at peace, Christian! You have an awesome promise to look forward to…

(Revelation 21:3-4) “And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

“Practice finding peace in Jesus during the troubles of life.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for sending Your only Son, Jesus to die on the cross for my sins. Thank You for the promise that one day, You will wipe the tears from my eyes and there will be no more death, sorrow or crying. Thank You that I can have peace through Jesus, no matter what trial or difficulties I am experiencing. Please forgive me for the times when I have surrendered my peace to a situation or problem and help me to live for You every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you would like to find true peace and surrender it all and seek Jesus, or recommit your life to Him, please click here

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

November 2nd 2018 – Stretched Out Love

“And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8)

In 1st Peter chapter 4, the apostle uses an interesting word to describe the love we are to have for one another. He says we are to have a “fervent” love. In the Greek, this word means “stretched out” and carries with it a picture of a runner straining for the finish line. It’s a vivid image of a love that never quits. This love is a marathon type of love, not a sprint.

What does this “stretched out” love look like? Peter answers this question with the next quote, “Love will cover a multitude of sins.” In other words, a fervent, stretched-out love is a love that forgives no matter the cost. Like a marathon runner continues despite the burning in his lungs and the cramps in his muscles because he desires to achieve the goal, so we should endure the pain of rejection and the harsh words of those around us with a love in our hearts and a forgiving spirit. How can we love like this? We can love this way because Christ first loved us. He loved us even when we were sinners. He loved us, even when we rebelled against Him. He loved us with stretched out arms on the cross. Let’s love each other in the same way.

“We should stretch ourselves in order to love one another. This means being willing to forgive no matter the cost.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your love and ask that You would help me to love others in the same way. Help me to forgive often, love unconditionally and serve those around me. Use my fervent love to draw others to Your amazing grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you would like to surrender it all and seek Jesus, or recommit your life to Him, please click here

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

October 27th 2018 – Tear Filled Eyes

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” (Psalm 34:18)

Are you aware that many people of the Bible struggled with sadness? Moses asked God to take his life (Numbers 11:10-15), Job cursed the day of his birth (Job 3:1-26), Jonah was angry with God and wanted to die (Jonah 4:3-9). Hanna grieved because her womb remained closed ‘couldn’t have children’ (1 Samuel 1:1-16), Naomi was filled with anguish after experiencing hardships (Ruth 1:1-20), Hagar sobbed in the desert as her son was about to die (Genesis 21).

There are multiple reasons why these people incurred feelings of despair, but there is one awesome God who helped each one out of their pit. Moses was overwhelmed, so God appointed him help. Job lost everything, but God blessed him in his later years. After Hanna poured her heart out to the Lord, He opened her womb. As Hagar cried in the wilderness, God provided for her and her child’s needs.

Sunken feelings can enter your life after a loss, after committing sin, from the hands of someone else’s wrong doings, or even following a huge spiritual triumph, and so forth. No matter what the cause of your sadness, God desires to restore you to wholeness.

If you’re feeling down, know that God is with you. He knows what you are going through and does not want you to remain crushed in spirit. Invite Him into every area of your life that needs healing. Brighter days will come as you place your hope in the Lord.

“My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19)

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him” (Lamentations 3:22-24)

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13)

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever”(Psalm 73:26)

“The ultimate friend we find in our pain is Jesus himself. He wept. On the cross, He experienced separation from God in its fullness. Our Savior knows what it means to suffer.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me for I am battling the inner demons of depression, sadness, and sometimes hopelessness. Shine Your warm heavenly light down on me. I am in need of strength and courage. Help me to be gentle with myself whenever I regress. Give me courage and strength to move forward following You way. Thank you for the special ones that love me, family, friends and and pets. Guide me to find rest, happiness, and contentment in myself and in life. Amen.

If you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, Don’t wait! “In a flash of a second it could be too late!” Click Here to read Four Simple Steps to Jesus.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

October 21st 2018 – Pruning and Bearing More Fruit

“For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death.” (Romans 7:5)

The technological advancements made by mankind in the last century or even the last 20 years are astounding. Yet with all our technology, we still have to wait for lettuce to ripen and for olives to mature. Lettuce ripens a month and a half after planting, but for an olive the wait is at least four years. Some of us, like the lettuce, are maturing quickly while others, like olives, are improving more slowly. Something changed in you when you were saved, and still… God is making changes to you.

(Romans 7:6) “But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter.”

We should all be bearing fruit. There may be times that you need to endure pruning before you bear fruit. Pruning redirects energy to the right places. If you are not being fruitful, maybe you need to redirect energy toward the Lord. Don’t just come to church, be the church. Be praying, giving, serving – joining hands with your church to achieve something far greater than any one of us could achieve alone.

“Christianity is not do-it-yourself religion. Its a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and fellowship with the family.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me. Give me the desire to grow in righteousness through the washing of Your Word, in serving You and prayer. Help me to love and serve others in the place where You want me to grow and bear good fruit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click here to learn more.

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

October 20th 2018 – Sharing Jesus to a Lost and Hateful World

“Did I commit sin in humbling myself that you might be exalted, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?” (2 Corinthians 11:7 )

Can you imagine having the apostle Paul as a pastor? When we think of Paul we think of the “perfect pastor” whom everyone loved and yet, (2 Corinthians 11) paints a different story. In this powerful, yet sad chapter, Paul is forced to defend himself against people in the church who were coming against him.

There were those in the church in Corinth who were saying that Paul was only in it for the money (even though he did not receive anything from them), and there were people in that church that saw him as a lesser teacher because he did not ask for support in sharing the message of Jesus. In the end, Paul could not win. Why did Paul NOT receive funds from them? Because they acted like they didn’t want to give, like they couldn’t afford to give, and acted like they shouldn’t have to give. They could have sown into Paul’s ministry and shared the benefits and blessings but because of their selfishness, they missed a glorious opportunity. Paul knew this and yet, he loved them anyway. He spoke Truth in love, hoping that they would see the Truth. So, it is with our lives. There are times we will speak the Truth in love and others will not listen. If they don’t, love them through it and allow the Lord to use your gentle witness to impact their life forever.

“some people won’t hear, some people won’t recognize the sacrifice and gift,  some people will slander you while others wish to kill you. But don’t stop trying because some will hear and be reached.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, There are people in my life that I struggle with. No matter how hard I try or how much love I freely give to them, they continually cause me to wonder why. Help me to be a loving witness of Your  love to them. Give me opportunities to share the truth in love while being sensitive and patient with the work of Your Holy Spirit. Also, if I am the issue, please help me to be aware of it so that I can bring it to You. Thank You for allowing me to continue this ministry without ever being paid or ever asking for donations. Thank you for allowing me to bless others whit what I have earned by my labor. Lord open their eyes to the blessing and that it is a gift and not owed to them. Thank You for keeping me through the trials when people say and write hateful things, judge me and verbally attack me for sharing your truth of love. I ask that you continue to bless me with a job I love You Lord.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Don’t know Jesus? Give Him a try, if you dont like Him, the devil will always take you back.

Jesus, I recognize that I have not lived my life for You up until now. I have been living for myself and that is wrong. I need You in my life; I want You in my life. I acknowledge the completed work of Your Son Jesus Christ in giving His life for me on the cross at Calvary, and I long to receive the forgiveness you have made freely available to me through this sacrifice. Come into my life now, Lord. Take up residence in my heart and be my king, my Lord, and my Savior. From this day forward, I will no longer be controlled by sin, or the desire to please myself, but I will follow You all the days of my life. Those days are in Your hands. I ask this in Jesus’ precious name Amen.

If you prayed this prayer please Click Here and let us know.. We would love to pray for you and with you. Congratulations and welcome to Gods family.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click here to learn more.

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

October 17th 2018 – Let Your Light Shine

“All they knew was that people were saying, “The one who used to persecute us is now preaching the very faith he tried to destroy!” And they praised God because of me.” (Galatians 1:23-24)

God is in the business of using our lives, no matter our past mistakes. Paul had persecuted the church and then he became one leading the church. God was using Paul and his past to be a witness of God’s power and grace.

God wants to do the same with you. I know it sounds a little crazy, but it’s true. God wants to use your life to be a light in a dark world. “But you don’t know what I’ve done in my past.” I may not, but God does and he says that those things are forgiven. Don’t dwell on those things, confess them to the Lord and then move on in faith. Share your testimony, love your enemy, give to the needy or whatever else God may have you do. We are only on this earth for a short time. Use every moment for the Lord and you will find incredible joy in the adventure. Since we are only on Earth for a little while, we should do things that will shine forever.

“Let it Shine!”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your grace. Thank You for saving me and empowering me with the Holy Spirit so that I can live for You. Use my life to shine Your love and Truth to everyone around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click here to learn more.

2017-07-21-05-57-35

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org